Inhaled budesonide in ventilator-dependent preterm infants: A randomized, double-blind pilot study

The aim of this randomized, double-blind pilot study was to evaluate the sh ort-term efficacy of early inhalation therapy with budesonide in ventilator -dependent preterm infants. The primary outcome variable was the duration o f artificial ventilation; secondary outcome variables were the need for sup plemental oxygen and the release of several inflammatory mediators in the t racheobronchial aspirate fluid. The infants of the budesonide group could n ot be weaned earlier from the ventilator, The ventilatory parameters on day 14 of life and the need for supplemental oxygen were similar in both group s. The release of inflammatory mediators was not reduced in the budesonide group. No adverse side effects were observed in either group. In conclusion , aerosolized budesonide failed to demonstrate significant shortterm pulmon ary improvement in ventilator-dependent preterm infants.